On the hunt for truffles in Vaucluse
Mission “Black diamond”
The leading producer of the black diamond in France, Vaucluse is home to 500 truffle growers, each passionate about the mystery of the Tuber Melanosporum. Very approachable, they beckon us closer so that they can share the secrets of this irresistible mushroom, as well as inviting us along to hunt them when the time comes. I decided to follow the “Rabasse en Vaucluse” trail with local professionals. With tasting sessions and activities, let’s begin our truffle journey and mission “Black Diamond”!
The Institut de la truffe
At Plantin, specialist and supplier to fine dining restaurants
For nearly 70 years, the path of the Plantin family has crossed with that of the black diamond. So much so that today, this Vaucluse-based company supplies the best tables in France and exports its products all around the world.
Over the past year, it has launched more widely into the retail sector, increasingly curious about authentic and local products.
In Puyméras, I discovered the Maison Plantin institute, where each product highlights the art of the truffle. The decor of this shop reflects the precious mycorrhised mushroom, with touches of both light and dark brown creating a perfect visual harmony.
The culinary decor accented with fine materials, such as wood and wrought iron, is sophisticated and elegant. Everything is inspiring. From pâtés to flavourful condiments, seasonings to chocolates, truffles are present in every tasty treat. Intoxicated by the fragrance filling the space, I can’t say no to trying some of the delicacies. Have you ever tried them?
Firm Favourite
Maison Plantin regularly organises cooking (and gourmet!) classes focussing on the truffle, but also mushrooms, also knowing how to heighten their flavours (like morels).
Truffle and Wine Museum in Richerenches
This time you can take as long as you like discovering the famous mushroom as the Truffle and Wine Museum has been established in the vaulted cellars of a former command post of the Knights Templar.
The open stonework and the arches marking the limit between each space give this place a very warm ambiance.
Literature, interactive terminals and educational panels explain the local history and treasures of the truffle. And entrance is free!
Note
As the star product of this little village in the Enclave-des-Papes area, the black truffle is honoured on the 3rd Sunday in January each year. A mass is devoted to it, there are walks, and a lovely festival given in honour of the truffle growers!
Ventoux Truffle Hunting in Monteux
Now we’re going to the estate of the Jaumard family in Monteux, truffle producer in the Ventoux for 3 generations.
I have an appointment for a “cavage” (truffle hunting) session with Baptiste Jaumard and his dog. Like his brother, Baptiste inherited his parents’ passion for this profession and pursued it after completing his studies. Today the family business is centred around the truffle: its production, making products using truffles and agrotourism activities (truffle hunting, discovery days and truffle weekends).
The truffle hunting experience is amazing. The dog has replaced the less than careful pig when hunting, and its sense of smell is rock solid, never getting it wrong!
Did you know?
Truffles can also be detected by a particular species of fly which, attracted by the irresistible odour (even though it is underground), makes its nest near where the truffle is growing.
Practical information
Booking: www.truffes-jaumard.com (in french)
25 minutes from Avignon via the D907 then D225 then D942
Address: 634 Chemin du Traversier – 84170 Monteux
From mid-November to mid-March
The House of Truffle and Wine
A pretty estate at Ménerbes
Accommodated in a beautifully-renovated 17th century private mansion, the Truffle and Wine House is a fun place for individual visitors to learn about the truffle and a training space for professionals and enthusiasts.
From November to March, you can join truffle hunting workshops.
I cannot recommend enjoying a special truffle menu highly enough and letting your sommelier’s perfectly chosen wine list guide you.
Practical information
The shop is open every day from 10am to 5pm.
TOP 5 truffle recipes
The Pays de Grignan-Enclave des Papes Tourist Office shares 5 simple and flavourful truffle recipes. Delicious!
